Actual size of a DataDot

Magnified Dot

What is DataDot or Microdots?

DataDot's are tiny polyester particles that are inscribed with unique information. Each microdot is no larger than 1mm in diameter. 10 000 of these microdots have been applied to each motor vehicle using a special adhesive. The information etched onto the microdots relates exclusively to the identity of your vehicle. The water-based adhesive used has UV additives providing easy identification of sprayed areas. The microdots are sprayed onto a minimum of 80 sites within the vehicle, making it difficult for would-be thieves to alter the car's identity. The sheer number of dots, both in overt (30%) and covert (70%) locations, effectively provides the vehicle with its own DNA. The dots are only legible under a low-powered microscope or by using a special UV light making it difficult to determine exactly where they have been placed.

Why DataDot or Microdots?

Improved identification of vehicles and its parts has many benefits. Unmarked parts or easily removed identification markings – such as VIN and engine numbers - offer professional thieves many opportunities. Registration fraud, substitution of identity (re-birthing), chopping of parts and fraudulent warranty claims are some of the major challenges facing investigators and police. The incorporation of 10 000 microdots into motor vehicles in effect provides each vehicle and its parts with their own DNA! It is a proven fact that a vehicle with this degree of identification becomes less desirable to thieves.

Other benefits

By reducing the value of the vehicle to thieves, it enhances the safety of the occupants making this deterrent a priceless benefit. This will also benefit insurers, police services, prosecuting authorities and our country as a whole. VESA, a non-profit organisation that regulates the vehicle security industry, also endorses the product. VESA's Marketing Manager Adri Smit says that microdot technology is having a positive impact on the return of recovered stolen vehicles. SAIA (South African Insurance Association) also certifies this technology. The technology therefore also poses a cost saving benefit from an insurance premium perspective. Microdot technology is also being used to mark household, office, and school items, as well as museum pieces. We taken the liberty of pre-empting some questions that you are likely to ask and have provided some answers as follows.

Q: Does the DataDot system have to be activated as with tracking devices?
A: NO. The -DataDot system is not a tracking device. You could term this system as being active at all times in deterring thieves. A sticker indicating that your vehicle is protected by DataDot is highly visible to would be thieves.

Q: How do I know that my vehicle has been fitted with the DataDot technology?
A: All vehicles are fitted with a sticker once the Microdot technology is applied. The sticker is placed on the left rear most passenger windows and is highly visible.

Q: Where on my vehicle are the microdots applied?
A: Each vehicle type has a different application specification. The microdots are generally applied to these areas: chassis, suspension, engine area top and bottom, inside doors and panels, the ribbing of the bonnet and boot areas, sub-assembly (e.g. gearbox, diff, etc.) among others. Microdots are not applied to the exterior paintwork/bodywork of the vehicle.

Q: What do I need to do should my vehicle be stolen?
A: Simply report the theft to the SAPS as per the standard procedure. You can indicate that your vehicle has the DataDot technology. This is not essential though, because the SAPS have access to the national database of vehicles that have this technology. It is standard policing protocol to check the database and flag the vehicle status accordingly, since this makes their job a lot easier in identifying the vehicle once it is recovered.

Q: In the event of damage to my vehicle, will the new parts fitted also have the microdot technology?
A: In general the answer to this is no, it is not necessary. However if the insurer or our customer would like to have his or her vehicle re-dotted due to the vehicle having had major repairs they may do so. This can be done by any DataDot approved fitment centre. See Vehicle Installation

Q: What happens when I sell my car?
A: Any change to NATIS/ownership details is available to the SAPS via their system which in turn has links into the national microdot database. Hence when the unique microdot is identified it will be linked to the new owner.

Q: With the increased recovery rates and the quick identification of the owner, what happens if insurance has already paid me for the loss?
A: As per standard practice by the insurance companies, the insurance company takes ownership of your vehicle once they have settled your claim. The SAPS will therefore contact the relevant new owner / insurer once the vehicle is recovered.

Q: How will my insurer know that my vehicle is protected by DataDot?
A: Please ask your insurer to e-mail your new vehicles full 17 digit VIN number to either info@datadot.co.za or vesa@datadot.co.za and a letter of confirmation of fitment will be e-mailed from the national database in reply to the broker concerned. In addition to this most insurance underwriters and or brokers have access to this information via their links with TU-Auto and Tsohle-Unicode.

Q: Will I get a reduction in my insurance premiums for having my vehicle protected by DataDot?
A: As you are aware, each individual is evaluated on their own merits when it comes to insurance risk. Your broker or insurance underwriters will need to establish your individual rate reduction based on your overall risk profile. The South African Insurance Association certifies this technology and is fully aware of the benefits. In general a 5% discount is available on request.

Q: Who can I call for more information or help with regards to DataDot?
A: Call DataDot on - 0861 DATADOT or 0861 3282368